Naringenin, a flavonoid predominantly found in citrus fruits, has been investigated for its effects on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and related metabolic disorders. The justification for its use is grounded primarily in preclinical scientific studies, rather than longstanding traditional use. Animal and cell culture studies have demonstrated that naringenin may reduce hepatic lipid accumulation, enhance fatty acid oxidation, suppress lipogenesis, and exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects—all mechanisms relevant to fatty liver disease. For example, research in rodent models of NAFLD has shown that naringenin supplementation can decrease liver fat content and improve markers of liver inflammation and oxidative stress. Proposed mechanisms include modulation of PPARα (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha) and inhibition of SREBP-1c (sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c) pathways.

However, direct clinical evidence in humans is limited. Most of the available data come from in vitro experiments or animal models, and there are very few, if any, published randomized controlled trials assessing naringenin’s efficacy in treating NAFLD in humans. Thus, while there is a plausible scientific rationale and preliminary preclinical support, the quality and quantity of evidence are currently insufficient to fully endorse its use in clinical practice for fatty liver disease. Further well-designed human studies are needed to validate its safety and effectiveness.